During this time of year, it is increasingly difficult to avoid discussing trade scenarios that could prove advantageous for the Braves. Alex Anthopoulos has effectively addressed numerous deficiencies on the Braves’ roster this offseason, thereby fortifying many of their weaknesses. From the outset of the offseason, a primary focus identified by Anthopoulos was the acquisition of starting pitching, an area the Braves have yet to address. Many are skeptical of the possibility of a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates, a subject that has consistently generated speculation.
A trade with the Pirates presents a potentially beneficial opportunity for the Braves to enhance their rotation without compromising key prospects. While there remains a few noteworthy free-agent starters, no significant developments have occurred to date. Many of the best remaining names are encumbered by a Qualifying Offer, which would not only deprive the Braves of their #26 overall draft selection in the 2026 MLB Draft but also a considerable amount of Bonus Pool Money.
Additionally, the trade market appears lackluster, as most potential trades would require the Braves to part with prospects such as Hurston Waldrep, Cam Caminiti, or JR Ritchie. Anthopoulos is unlikely to offer these prospects, nor should he. The trade that initially emerged as mere speculation yet has persisted in conversation is that involving the Pittsburgh Pirates and Mitch Keller. This is the trade scenario we will explore in detail.
A potential trade between the Pirates and Braves involving Sean Murphy and Mitch Keller could see Pittsburgh acquiring much-needed offensive talent in exchange for pitching depth. The Braves are looking to capitalize on Murphy’s strong defensive skills, particularly if it helps bolster their pitching staff, given Drake Baldwin’s recent emergence and Murphy’s injury history. Although Murphy’s batting performance has recently declined and he has faced hip issues, he remains regarded as an elite defender with significant hitting potential when healthy, making him a valuable trade asset for teams seeking a strong catcher to complement their pitching staff, as recent trade discussions suggest.
This trade scenario presents exciting opportunities for both teams! The Pirates are on the lookout for a much-needed offensive boost, especially in the middle of their batting order. Despite some recent ups and downs in Murphy’s performance, his impressive hitting ability—when healthy—makes him a fantastic addition. Plus, with uncertainty looming over their catcher position involving players like Henry Davis and Joey Bart, bringing in Murphy would be a game-changer, as he possesses All-Star caliber talent to enhance their lineup. The trade scenario would be much more beneficial if the Pirates added Bart to the Keller Package to free up roster space and allow a Murphy-Davis combo. This would give Davis the opportunity to learn from an elite defender and continue being groomed to take over in the future.
On the Braves’ front, rookie sensation Drake Baldwin’s impressive rise could make Sean Murphy somewhat dispensable. Baldwin’s success not only opens up the designated hitter position but also enhances Atlanta’s roster flexibility. By trading Murphy, the Braves could strategically target critical areas, such as starting pitching, aligning seamlessly with their goal of strengthening the rotation to provide vital depth to avoid last season’s injury debacle. The Braves would be interested in Mitch Keller for his durability, consistent innings, and controllable, affordable contract (Signed thru 2028, 5 yrs/$77M), positioning him as a solid #3 or #4 starter to bolster their rotation—especially considering their previous injury challenges and the high costs associated with premier free-agent pitchers. He is a proven MLB starter who consistently logs over 175 innings, making him an ideal fit to complement stars like Chris Sale and Spencer Schwellenbach.
While there are some contract factors to consider—specifically Murphy’s recent hip injuries impacting his performance—the Braves have a solid opportunity to trade him, relieving some payroll with the remaining $45 million over three years. This trade could yield significant benefits for both teams. The Braves would strengthen their roster, while the Pirates would gain a premier bat, enhancing their lineup and addressing their needs with Murphy’s fantastic defensive skills. It’s an exciting time for both franchises, should they explore these possibilities!
Braves Get: (SP) Mitch Keller and (C) Joey Bart
Pirates Get: (C) Sean Murphy and (SP) Dylan Dodd
This article was a simple response to several posts using this trade scenario as their content. This wasn’t my original thought. Just simply a response to the following articles or posts:
- https://www.newsweek.com/braves-predicted-to-trade-73-million-veteran-to-shocking-nl-club-11208520
- https://heavy.com/sports/mlb/atlanta-braves/braves-pirates-trade-idea-lands-mitch-keller-for-sean-murphy/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SY32CeQsY2A
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